Report mixed but seen as consistent with modest growth for manufacturing sector

WASHINGTON—A gauge of U.S. factory activity rose in October, a sign the manufacturing sector could be stabilizing after two years of challenging conditions.

The Institute for Supply Management on Tuesday said its purchasing manufacturers’ index rose to 51.9 in October from 51.5 in September. A reading above 50 indicates that factory activity is growing, while a reading under 50 signals contraction.